Healthy grilling: Kebabs & quinoa

Katie Carpenter
| 06.12.13

Looking for some easy and healthy summer meal ideas? Cooking on your grill can be a quick and easy way to create flavorful and nutritious meals for your family!

On the menu:Grilled shrimp kebabs over quinoa with mushrooms

But, be aware that grilling food can potentially be dangerous if cancer-causing carcinogens are created from flare-ups and too much smoke. Learn how to boost nutrition and reduce risk with these tips from PinnacleHealth Dietitian Marykaye Flatley, RD, LDN and Harrisburg Hospital/Sodexo’s Executive Chef Paul Gusst.

Watch the video below to learn how you can make this delicious menu at home! And, you don’t have to be a chef to make it!

Watch this video of Paul and Marykaye preparing steak, grilled mixed veggies and a delicious grilled watermelon and feta salad!

Below are some of Marykaye and Paul’s top grilling secrets for flavorful, nutritious, and safe meals:

Keep your grill clean. A clean grill not only cooks better but it also reduces the amount of carcinogens that will form on your food.

Studies show that specific herbs like basil, mint, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage can reduce HCA formation in foods. Thai spices like chili, ginger and turmeric also reduce carcinogens. (Check out chef Paul’s rosemary “brush” in the video)

Choose brightly-colored veggies to grill, like bell peppers, tomato, and red onion. These are packed with antioxidants and flavor!

The USDA recommends making ½ of your plate fruits and veggies- so keep that in mind when building your plate. Fill up that half with tasty grilled veggies and fruit, and the other with a whole grain side, like Quinoa, and your grilled meat.

What are your favorite things to grill? What tips can you share? Would you try this menu and healthy grilling tips at home? Please leave a comment!